Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, 11410-11413 [2021-03660]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
torque of the T/R plug by increasing the
torque up to 30.5 Nm and inspect for any
movement the moment torque is applied.
(i) If there is no movement and the
tightening torque is at least 30.5 Nm, before
further flight, install lockwire by following
the Accomplishment Instructions, part I,
paragraph 4, of Leonardo Helicopters
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No.
119–105, Revision A, dated June 3, 2020
(EASB 119–105 Rev A).
(ii) If there is any movement or the
tightening torque is less than 30.5 Nm, before
further flight, comply with paragraph (f)(2) of
this AD.
(2) Within 50 hours TIS, unless required
before further flight by paragraph (f)(1)(ii) of
this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 200 hours TIS, inspect to determine
whether the P/N and serial number (S/N) are
visible on the outboard and inboard faces of
the T/R duplex bearing by following the
Accomplishment Instructions, part II,
paragraphs 4 through 13 (except paragraphs
9.1, 13.1, and 13.2), of EASB 119–105 Rev A.
Instead of the excluded steps, do the
following:
Note 1 to paragraph (f)(2): You are not
required to discard parts and you may use
equivalent tooling to that identified in EASB
119–105 Rev A.
(i) If the P/N and S/N markings are visible
on the outboard or inboard face of the T/R
duplex bearing, before further flight, remove
from service the T/R duplex bearing, internal
spacer P/N 129–0160–43–101 (internal
spacer), external spacer P/N 129–0160–44–
101 (external spacer), bearing liner assembly,
and T/R control rod P/N 109–0135–02–101
(T/R control rod).
(ii) If the P/N and S/N markings are not
visible on the inboard face of the T/R duplex
bearing, before further flight, inspect the T/
R duplex bearing, T/R plug, and nut by
following the Accomplishment Instructions,
part II, paragraphs 14 and 15 (but not
paragraphs 15.1 through 15.2), of EASB 119–
105 Rev A. For purposes of this inspection,
damage to the races may be indicated by nonmovement of the inner race, movement of the
outer race, deformation, roughness, or
incorrect installation; and damage to the
threads of the T/R plug and nut may be
indicated by uneven threads, missing
threads, or cross-threading.
(A) If the T/R duplex bearing has any rough
rotation, brinelling, spalling, chipping,
flaking, evidence of overheated bearing balls,
or damage to the races, before further flight,
remove from service the T/R duplex bearing,
the internal spacer, the external spacer, the
bearing liner assembly, and the T/R control
rod.
(B) If the T/R plug or nut has any damaged
threads, before further flight, remove from
service the affected part.
(C) Reassemble the T/R duplex bearing
assembly by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, part II, paragraphs 16 through
31, of EASB 119–105 Rev A.
(3) As of the effective date of this AD, do
not install a T/R duplex bearing P/N 129–
0160–11–103 on any helicopter unless you
have complied with the requirements in
paragraph (f)(2) of this AD.
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(g) Credit for Previous Actions
(1) Accomplishment of AD 2020–13–02
before the effective date of this AD is
considered acceptable for compliance with
paragraph (f)(1) and the initial inspection
required by paragraph (f)(2) of this AD.
(2) Actions accomplished before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with
the procedures specified in Leonardo
Helicopters EASB No. 119–100, dated August
7, 2019, or Leonardo Helicopters EASB No.
119–105, dated May 18, 2020, are considered
acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding actions specified in paragraph
(f)(1) and the initial inspection required by
paragraph (f)(2) of this AD.
(h) Special Flight Permits
Special flight permits are prohibited.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Strategic Policy
Rotorcraft Section, FAA, may approve
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to:
David Hatfield, Aviation Safety Engineer,
Aircraft Systems Section, Technical
Innovation Policy Branch, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone 817–222–5110; email 9-ASW-FTWAMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office, before
operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
(j) Additional Information
(1) Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 119–
100, dated August 7, 2019, and Leonardo
Helicopters EASB No. 119–105, dated May
18, 2020, which are not incorporated by
reference, contain additional information
about the subject of this AD. For service
information identified in this AD, contact
Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness,
Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di
Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–
225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or at https://
www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. You
may view a copy of the service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD No. 2020–0128, dated June 4,
2020. You may view the EASA AD on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov in
Docket No. FAA–2020–1026.
(k) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6400, Tail Rotor System.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
PO 00000
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(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Leonardo Helicopters Emergency Alert
Service Bulletin No. 119–105, Revision A,
dated June 3, 2020.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters,
Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness,
Viale G. Agusta 520, 21017 C. Costa di
Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–
225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or at https://
www.leonardocompany.com/en/home.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on January 29, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–03663 Filed 2–24–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0649; Product
Identifier 2019–SW–061–AD; Amendment
39–21410; AD 2021–03–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo
S.p.a. Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Leonardo S.p.a. (Leonardo) Model
AB139 and AW139 helicopters. This AD
requires removing certain engine
mounting rods from service and
prohibits their installation on any
helicopter. This AD was prompted by a
report of non-conforming engine
mounting rods. The actions of this AD
are intended to address an unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 1,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain document listed in this AD
as of April 1, 2021.
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele
Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale
G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di
Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–
0331–225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or
at https://www.leonardocompany.com/
en/home. You may view the referenced
service information at the FAA, Office
of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also
available on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0649.
ADDRESSES:
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0649; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this AD, the
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, any service information
that is incorporated by reference, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kristi Bradley, Aviation Safety Engineer,
General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email
kristin.bradley@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to Leonardo Model AB139 and
AW139 helicopters with certain serialnumbered engine mounting rods part
number (P/N) 3G7120V00132. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on July 9, 2020 (85 FR 41219).
The NPRM proposed to require
removing the affected engine mounting
rods from service and proposed to
prohibit installing an affected engine
mounting rod on any helicopter. The
proposed requirements were intended to
prevent failure of an affected engine
mounting rod, which could possibly
result in loss of control of the
helicopter.
The NPRM was prompted by EASA
AD No. 2019–0149, dated June 24, 2019,
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16:18 Feb 24, 2021
Jkt 253001
issued by EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, to correct an unsafe
condition for Leonardo S.p.a. (formerly
Finmeccanica S.p.A., AgustaWestland
S.p.A., Agusta S.p.A.; and
AgustaWestland Philadelphia
Corporation, formerly Agusta Aerospace
Corporation) Model AB139 and AW139
helicopters with certain serial numbered
engine mounting rods P/N
3G7120V00132 installed. EASA advises
of reports of a production nonconformity on a specific batch of these
engine mounting rods. EASA further
advises that this non-conformity
degrades the material strength of the
engine mounting rods.
EASA states this condition, if not
corrected, could lead to failure of an
affected engine mounting rod, possibly
resulting in loss of control of the
helicopter. Accordingly, the EASA AD
requires removing from service each
affected engine mounting rod, emailing
a completed ‘‘Scrap Report’’ to
Leonardo Helicopters Division, and
installing a serviceable engine mounting
rod. The EASA AD also prohibits
installing an affected engine mounting
rod on any helicopter.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule, but the FAA did not
receive any comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the
public.
FAA’s Determination
These helicopters have been approved
by EASA and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the
European Union, EASA has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD
after evaluating all of the information
provided by EASA and determining the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other helicopters of
the same type designs and that air safety
and the public interest require adopting
the AD requirements as proposed.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
The EASA AD requires emailing a
completed ‘‘Scrap Report’’ to Leonardo
Helicopters Division at the same
compliance time as the engine mounting
rod removal, whereas this AD does not.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Leonardo
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. 139–593, Revision A, dated June 14,
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Fmt 4700
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11411
2019 (ASB 139–593, Revision A), which
specifies procedures to replace the
engine outboard and inboard mounting
rods from the Number 1 and Number 2
engines.
This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties
have access to it through their normal
course of business or by the means
identified in the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Leonardo
Helicopters ASB No. 139–593, dated
June 11, 2019. This service information
contains the same procedures as ASB
139–593, Revision A. However, ASB
139–593, Revision A expands the
applicability from certain serialnumbered Model AB139 and AW139
helicopters to all Model AB139 and
AW139 helicopters with affected engine
mounting rods installed.
The FAA also reviewed Leonardo
Helicopters AMP DM 39–A–71–21–05–
00A–520A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–21–
05–00A–720A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–
21–06–00A–520A–B, AMP DM 39–A–
71–21–06–00A–720A–B, AMP DM 39–
A–71–21–07–00A–520A–B, AMP DM
39–A–71–21–07–00A–720A–B, AMP
DM 39–A–71–21–08–00A–520A–B, and
AMP DM 39–A–71–21–08–00A–720A–
B, all dated October 4, 2019. This
service information specifies
instructions for removing and installing
the outboard and inboard engine
mounting rods.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects up to 126 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. The FAA estimates that
operators may incur the following costs
in order to comply with this AD. Labor
costs are estimated at $85 per workhour.
Replacing an engine mounting rod
requires about 8 work-hours and parts
cost about $1,000 for an estimated cost
of $1,680 per engine mounting rod.
According to Leonardo Helicopter’s
service information, some of the costs of
this AD may be covered under warranty,
thereby reducing the cost impact on
affected individuals. The FAA does not
control warranty coverage by Leonardo
Helicopters. Accordingly, all costs are
included in this cost estimate.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on helicopters identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2021–03–07 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment
39–21410; Docket No. FAA–2020–0649;
Product Identifier 2019–SW–061–AD.
(a) Applicability
This airworthiness directive (AD) applies
to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139
helicopters, certificated in any category, with
an engine mounting rod part number (P/N)
3G7120V00132 with a serial number (S/N)
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:18 Feb 24, 2021
Jkt 253001
listed in Figures 2 or 3 of Leonardo
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 139–
593, Revision A, dated June 14, 2019 (ASB
139–593), installed.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
non-conforming engine mounting rod. This
condition could result in structural failure of
the engine mounting rod and subsequent loss
of control of the helicopter.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective April 1, 2021.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each
action required by this AD within the
specified compliance time unless it has
already been accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Before further flight, determine the total
hours time-in-service (TIS) of each engine
mounting rod.
(2) Before reaching 225 total hours TIS or
within 25 hours TIS, whichever occurs later,
with the battery and any other electrical
power supply disconnected, remove from
service the engine mounting rod as follows:
(i) For the Number 1 engine outboard
mounting rod, remove from service the
Number 1 engine outboard mounting rod and
install an airworthy Number 1 engine
outboard mounting rod as shown in Detail
‘‘B’’ of Figure 1 of ASB 139–593 and by
following the Accomplishment Instructions,
paragraphs 3.1 and 3.2 of ASB 139–593,
except you are not required to discard the
Number 1 engine outboard mounting rod or
comply with the ‘‘Scrap Report’’ instruction
in paragraph 3.1 of ASB 139–593.
Note 1 to paragraphs (e)(2)(i) through (iv):
Figure 1 of ASB 139–593 shows the engine
outboard and inboard mounting rod
assemblies for the left-hand side only, the
right-hand side is symmetrical.
(ii) For the Number 1 engine inboard
mounting rod, remove from service the
Number 1 engine inboard mounting rod and
install an airworthy Number 1 engine
inboard mounting rod as shown in Detail ‘‘C’’
of Figure 1 of ASB 139–593 and by following
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs
3.3 and 3.4 of ASB 139–593, except you are
not required to discard the Number 1 engine
inboard mounting rod or comply with the
‘‘Scrap Report’’ instruction in paragraph 3.3
of ASB 139–593.
(iii) For the Number 2 engine outboard
mounting rod, remove from service the
Number 2 engine outboard mounting rod and
install an airworthy Number 2 engine
outboard mounting rod as shown in Detail
‘‘B’’ of Figure 1 of ASB 139–593 and by
following the Accomplishment instructions,
paragraphs 4.1 and 4.2 of ASB 139–593,
except you are not required to discard the
Number 2 engine outboard mounting rod or
comply with the ‘‘Scrap Report’’ instruction
in paragraph 4.1 of ASB 139–593.
(iv) For the Number 2 engine inboard
mounting rod, remove from service the
Number 2 engine inboard mounting rod and
install an airworthy Number 2 engine
inboard mounting rod as shown in Detail ‘‘C’’
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of Figure 1 of ASB 139–593 and by following
the Accomplishment instructions, paragraphs
4.3 and 4.4 of ASB 139–593, except you are
not required to discard the Number 2 engine
inboard mounting rod or comply with the
‘‘Scrap Report’’ instruction in paragraph 4.3
of ASB 139–593.
(3) As of the effective date of this AD, do
not install on any helicopter an engine
mounting rod with a P/N and
S/N listed in paragraph (a) of this AD.
(f) Credit for Previous Actions
Actions accomplished before the effective
date of this AD in accordance with the
procedures specified in Leonardo Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. 139–593, dated
June 11, 2019, are considered acceptable for
compliance with the corresponding actions
specified in paragraphs (e)(1) and (2) of this
AD.
(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Kristi Bradley,
Aviation Safety Engineer, General Aviation &
Rotorcraft Section, International Validation
Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort
Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110;
email 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office, before
operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
(h) Additional Information
(1) Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. 139–593, dated June 11, 2019,
and Leonardo Helicopters AMP DM 39–A–
71–21–05–00A–520A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–
21–05–00A–720A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–21–
06–00A–520A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–21–06–
00A–720A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–21–07–
00A–520A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–21–07–
00A–720A–B, AMP DM 39–A–71–21–08–
00A–520A–B, and AMP DM 39–A–71–21–
08–00A–720A–B, all dated October 4, 2019,
which are not incorporated by reference,
contain additional information about the
subject of this AD. For service information
identified in this AD, contact Leonardo S.p.a.
Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of
Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017
C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone
+39–0331–225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or
at https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/
home. You may view a copy of the service
information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth,
TX 76177.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD No. 2019–0149, dated June 24,
2019. You may view the EASA AD on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov in
Docket No. FAA–2020–0649.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 36 / Thursday, February 25, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
(i) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 7120, Engine Mount Section.
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. 139–593, Revision A, dated June
14, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters,
Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness,
Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di
Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–
225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or at https://
www.leonardocompany.com/en/home.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on January 27, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–03660 Filed 2–24–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
spindle bolts and the inner ring and
needle bearings of each flapping hinge,
corrective actions if necessary, and
repetitive replacements of affected
flapping hinge components, as specified
in a European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD, which is
incorporated by reference. Replacement
of all affected flapping hinge
components on each flapping hinge is
terminating action for the repetitive
inspections. This AD also expands the
applicability. This AD was prompted by
a report of a damaged flapping hinge on
a T/R blade. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 1,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of April 1, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For material incorporated
by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact
the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49
221 8999 000; email ADs@
easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
material on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this
material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321,
Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 817–222–5110. It is also
available in the AD docket on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–0983.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Examining the AD Docket
Federal Aviation Administration
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0983; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this final rule,
any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Daniel Moore, Aviation Safety Engineer,
Denver ACO Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 26805 E
68th Ave., Denver, CO 80249; telephone
303–342–1095; email daniel.e.moore@
faa.gov.
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0983; Project
Identifier MCAI–2020–00542–R; Amendment
39–21404; AD 2021–03–01]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018–05–
09, which applied to all Airbus
Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1,
AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters. AD
2018–05–09 required inspecting the tail
rotor (T/R) flapping hinge link (hinge)
and reporting the results. This AD
requires repetitive inspections of the
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:18 Feb 24, 2021
Jkt 253001
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
PO 00000
Frm 00027
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
11413
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2020–0086, dated April 14, 2020 (EASA
AD 2020–0086) (also referred to as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Information, or the MCAI), to correct an
unsafe condition for all Airbus
Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1,
AS332L, AS332L1, and SA330J
helicopters.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2018–05–09,
Amendment 39–19218 (83 FR 10360,
March 9, 2018) (AD 2018–05–09). AD
2018–05–09 applied to all Airbus
Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1,
AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on November 4, 2020 (85 FR
70087). The NPRM was prompted by
report of a damaged flapping hinge on
a T/R blade. The NPRM proposed to
require repetitive inspections of the
spindle bolts and the inner ring and
needle bearings of each flapping hinge,
corrective actions if necessary, and
repetitive replacements of affected
flapping hinge components, as specified
in an EASA AD. Replacement of all
affected flapping hinge components on
each flapping hinge is terminating
action for the repetitive inspections. The
NPRM also proposed to expand the
applicability.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
failure of a T/R flapping hinge. This
condition could result in unbalance of
the T/R, detachment of the T/R gearbox
and hub, and subsequent loss of control
of the helicopter. See the MCAI for
additional background information.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
final rule as proposed, except for minor
editorial changes. The FAA has
determined that these minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
addressing the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
E:\FR\FM\25FER1.SGM
25FER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 36 (Thursday, February 25, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11410-11413]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-03660]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0649; Product Identifier 2019-SW-061-AD; Amendment
39-21410; AD 2021-03-07]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Leonardo S.p.a. (Leonardo) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters.
This AD requires removing certain engine mounting rods from service and
prohibits their installation on any helicopter. This AD was prompted by
a report of non-conforming engine mounting rods. The actions of this AD
are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 1, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of April 1, 2021.
[[Page 11411]]
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of
Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va)
Italy; telephone +39-0331-225074; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. You may view the referenced service
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is
also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0649.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0649; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this AD, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any
service information that is incorporated by reference, any comments
received, and other information. The street address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue
SE, Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristi Bradley, Aviation Safety
Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Leonardo Model AB139
and AW139 helicopters with certain serial-numbered engine mounting rods
part number (P/N) 3G7120V00132. The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on July 9, 2020 (85 FR 41219). The NPRM proposed to require
removing the affected engine mounting rods from service and proposed to
prohibit installing an affected engine mounting rod on any helicopter.
The proposed requirements were intended to prevent failure of an
affected engine mounting rod, which could possibly result in loss of
control of the helicopter.
The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD No. 2019-0149, dated June 24,
2019, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member
States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for
Leonardo S.p.a. (formerly Finmeccanica S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A.,
Agusta S.p.A.; and AgustaWestland Philadelphia Corporation, formerly
Agusta Aerospace Corporation) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with
certain serial numbered engine mounting rods P/N 3G7120V00132
installed. EASA advises of reports of a production non-conformity on a
specific batch of these engine mounting rods. EASA further advises that
this non-conformity degrades the material strength of the engine
mounting rods.
EASA states this condition, if not corrected, could lead to failure
of an affected engine mounting rod, possibly resulting in loss of
control of the helicopter. Accordingly, the EASA AD requires removing
from service each affected engine mounting rod, emailing a completed
``Scrap Report'' to Leonardo Helicopters Division, and installing a
serviceable engine mounting rod. The EASA AD also prohibits installing
an affected engine mounting rod on any helicopter.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule, but the FAA did not receive any comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public.
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after
evaluating all of the information provided by EASA and determining the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other
helicopters of the same type designs and that air safety and the public
interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
The EASA AD requires emailing a completed ``Scrap Report'' to
Leonardo Helicopters Division at the same compliance time as the engine
mounting rod removal, whereas this AD does not.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. 139-593, Revision A, dated June 14, 2019 (ASB 139-593, Revision A),
which specifies procedures to replace the engine outboard and inboard
mounting rods from the Number 1 and Number 2 engines.
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 139-593, dated June
11, 2019. This service information contains the same procedures as ASB
139-593, Revision A. However, ASB 139-593, Revision A expands the
applicability from certain serial-numbered Model AB139 and AW139
helicopters to all Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with affected
engine mounting rods installed.
The FAA also reviewed Leonardo Helicopters AMP DM 39-A-71-21-05-
00A-520A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-05-00A-720A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-06-00A-
520A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-06-00A-720A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-07-00A-520A-
B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-07-00A-720A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-08-00A-520A-B,
and AMP DM 39-A-71-21-08-00A-720A-B, all dated October 4, 2019. This
service information specifies instructions for removing and installing
the outboard and inboard engine mounting rods.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects up to 126 helicopters of
U.S. Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following
costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85
per work-hour.
Replacing an engine mounting rod requires about 8 work-hours and
parts cost about $1,000 for an estimated cost of $1,680 per engine
mounting rod.
According to Leonardo Helicopter's service information, some of the
costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the
cost impact on affected individuals. The FAA does not control warranty
coverage by Leonardo Helicopters. Accordingly, all costs are included
in this cost estimate.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
[[Page 11412]]
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on helicopters identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2021-03-07 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment 39-21410; Docket No. FAA-2020-
0649; Product Identifier 2019-SW-061-AD.
(a) Applicability
This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Leonardo S.p.a.
Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters, certificated in any category,
with an engine mounting rod part number (P/N) 3G7120V00132 with a
serial number (S/N) listed in Figures 2 or 3 of Leonardo Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. 139-593, Revision A, dated June 14, 2019
(ASB 139-593), installed.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as a non-conforming engine
mounting rod. This condition could result in structural failure of
the engine mounting rod and subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective April 1, 2021.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each action required by this
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been
accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Before further flight, determine the total hours time-in-
service (TIS) of each engine mounting rod.
(2) Before reaching 225 total hours TIS or within 25 hours TIS,
whichever occurs later, with the battery and any other electrical
power supply disconnected, remove from service the engine mounting
rod as follows:
(i) For the Number 1 engine outboard mounting rod, remove from
service the Number 1 engine outboard mounting rod and install an
airworthy Number 1 engine outboard mounting rod as shown in Detail
``B'' of Figure 1 of ASB 139-593 and by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraphs 3.1 and 3.2 of ASB 139-593, except you are
not required to discard the Number 1 engine outboard mounting rod or
comply with the ``Scrap Report'' instruction in paragraph 3.1 of ASB
139-593.
Note 1 to paragraphs (e)(2)(i) through (iv): Figure 1 of ASB
139-593 shows the engine outboard and inboard mounting rod
assemblies for the left-hand side only, the right-hand side is
symmetrical.
(ii) For the Number 1 engine inboard mounting rod, remove from
service the Number 1 engine inboard mounting rod and install an
airworthy Number 1 engine inboard mounting rod as shown in Detail
``C'' of Figure 1 of ASB 139-593 and by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraphs 3.3 and 3.4 of ASB 139-593, except you are
not required to discard the Number 1 engine inboard mounting rod or
comply with the ``Scrap Report'' instruction in paragraph 3.3 of ASB
139-593.
(iii) For the Number 2 engine outboard mounting rod, remove from
service the Number 2 engine outboard mounting rod and install an
airworthy Number 2 engine outboard mounting rod as shown in Detail
``B'' of Figure 1 of ASB 139-593 and by following the Accomplishment
instructions, paragraphs 4.1 and 4.2 of ASB 139-593, except you are
not required to discard the Number 2 engine outboard mounting rod or
comply with the ``Scrap Report'' instruction in paragraph 4.1 of ASB
139-593.
(iv) For the Number 2 engine inboard mounting rod, remove from
service the Number 2 engine inboard mounting rod and install an
airworthy Number 2 engine inboard mounting rod as shown in Detail
``C'' of Figure 1 of ASB 139-593 and by following the Accomplishment
instructions, paragraphs 4.3 and 4.4 of ASB 139-593, except you are
not required to discard the Number 2 engine inboard mounting rod or
comply with the ``Scrap Report'' instruction in paragraph 4.3 of ASB
139-593.
(3) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install on any
helicopter an engine mounting rod with a P/N and S/N listed in
paragraph (a) of this AD.
(f) Credit for Previous Actions
Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in
accordance with the procedures specified in Leonardo Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. 139-593, dated June 11, 2019, are
considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions
specified in paragraphs (e)(1) and (2) of this AD.
(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, may
approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Kristi Bradley,
Aviation Safety Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort
Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office
or certificate holding district office, before operating any
aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(h) Additional Information
(1) Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 139-593,
dated June 11, 2019, and Leonardo Helicopters AMP DM 39-A-71-21-05-
00A-520A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-05-00A-720A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-06-
00A-520A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-06-00A-720A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-07-
00A-520A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-07-00A-720A-B, AMP DM 39-A-71-21-08-
00A-520A-B, and AMP DM 39-A-71-21-08-00A-720A-B, all dated October
4, 2019, which are not incorporated by reference, contain additional
information about the subject of this AD. For service information
identified in this AD, contact Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele
Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di
Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39-0331-225074; fax +39-0331-229046;
or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. You may view a copy
of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional
Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort
Worth, TX 76177.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2019-0149, dated June 24, 2019.
You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2020-0649.
[[Page 11413]]
(i) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 7120, Engine Mount
Section.
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 139-593,
Revision A, dated June 14, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness,
Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone
+39-0331-225074; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/home.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on January 27, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-03660 Filed 2-24-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
